Model Buses Creations Production Update - May 2025

We are pleased to finally share with you pre production sample images of the first three Enviro 200’s from our tooling. Our production partner in Hong Kong has been working extremely hard, on putting the Alexander Dennis Enviro 200 tooling back into service. The journey to production products involves checking the tooling, tooling refurbishment, and modifications, this has taken slightly longer than planned but it was important to get everything prefect. The images we are sharing are of the pre production samples models, so might not be 100% accurate and not a true represtative on the finished models. We have reviewed these with our partners at Stagecoach, Alexander Dennis and TFL license agent IMG, with all updates being shown on the final models.

The first three vehicles in the range below will be joined by three long wheel base vehicles early 2026.

Limited Quantity Triple Pack, Pre Order Special Value Offer All three for £129.99

Pre Orders Available from 12:00pm on Friday 7th June.

Please keep watching our social media and website for more updates.

Following the significant success in launching the brand new casting of the Alexander Dennis Enviro400 MMC model in the liveries of National Express West Midlands, Stagecoach in Oxfordshire, Bluestar, Stagecoach West Scotland, Southern Vectis, Stagecoach South, Stagecoach MacMillan Cancer Support, Ensign Bus, Xplore Dundee, Stagecoach North West, Go North East, Stagecoach Ambassador, Stagecoach North Scotland, Go South Coast, Reading Buses, Greater Manchester Bee Network and McGill’s Midland Bluebird, Northcord Model Company is now releasing the twenty fifth version – ukbus 6541 in the livery of McGill’s Xplore Dundee with branding for “your city your buses”.

ukbus 6541 represents fleet number 8905 (SN69 ZNV) that has 10.9 metre, single door bodywork with SmartVision camera mirrors, and was new to National Express Group-owned Xplore Dundee in December 2019 when it was allocated fleet number 6683. 8905 is one of the nine Alexander Dennis Enviro400 SmartHybrids finished to Emerald-specification entering service in late 2019. At this time, it carried branding for route 5, primarily, with additional route identification for “Outer Circle” routes 9 & 10.

Since the acquisition by McGill’s Bus Services in December 2020, 8905 was repainted with McGill’s corporate-style Xplore Dundee livery in early 2024. This livery mirrored double deckers that were in service with Midland Bluebird – the Dundee ones carrying a green-based scheme whereas the Midland ones featured a blue-based scheme and exemplified by ukbus 6536, released by NMC last month.

8905 carries a full, branded livery of “your city your buses” for route 22, showing the destination to Ninewells H. The special, comprehensive livery and branding are 100% reproduced onto the ukbus 6541 model. The stand-out features of the branding are : “your city your buses since 1921” on both sides and the rear; “we’re McGill’s” and “XPLORE DUNDEE” on both sides; “WiFi usb pay” at the front and on the nearside; “buses with latitude get around in style” on the rear, together with the name “RUBEN PEARSON” on the front, below the destination screen.

ukbus 6541 is the second ADL Enviro400 MMC Xplore Dundee model produced by Northcord Model Company. The previous Enviro400 MMC, ukbus 6521, representing 6695, and registered SK68 MBO, carries full branding for route 22 with the destination at the front displaying “Craigowl”. ukbus 6521 models were launched in December 2020 with twin traditional mirrors.

The Alexander Dennis Enviro400 MMC ukbus 6541 is a one-piece casting whose clean lines accentuate the square, gasket-mounted windows and the livery application on which all logos and lettering are clearly legible. Another main feature on the ukbus 6541 model is its tree deflector at the front to protect the front screen, front dome and side window. The front dome on the model is significant, with curved windscreens on both upper deck and lower deck.

Northcord Model Company is also creating new design standards within the interior of both saloons. These features, inside the compartments, will represent the real, outstanding layout of the Enviro400 MMC, such as the extensive portrayal of handrails on upper deck and lower deck, etc.

The brand new Enviro400 MMC bus models will be distributed by John Ayrey Die-Casts Limited (UK), Porte Publishing Company (Japan), 80M Bus Model Shop. respectively. The UKBUS6539 model is limited to 1008 pieces worldwide.

Transport Nostalgia is proud to unveil the UKBUS0080 ADL Enviro400MMC - a finely crafted 1/76 scale model of Stagecoach East Scotland’s vehicle 10483 (SN65 OBT), now resplendent in the iconic Strathtay Heritage livery. This release brings together the best of modern bus design and nostalgic appeal.

Originally delivered new in February 2016, 10483 is a 10.9m, integral-bodied Alexander Dennis Enviro 400MMC. It began life in the Stagecoach Manchester fleet, operating out of the busy Hyde Road depot on a range of high-frequency urban services. In early 2024, the vehicle was briefly loaned to Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire before heading north to its new home with Stagecoach East Scotland in 2025.

Now part of the East Scotland fleet, 10483 has received a full repaint into the blue, white, and orange Strathtay Heritage livery - a bold and vibrant design that evokes memories of a proud era in Scottish public transport. The livery has been a hit with both enthusiasts and everyday passengers, making 10483 a true standout wherever it operates.

A Stunning Model, Recreated in Miniature

This exceptional 1/76 scale model delivers an accurate and eye-catching miniature of the real-life vehicle, featuring:

• Correct fleet number (10483) and registration (SN65 OBT) placement
• Sharp detailing on logos, body lines, and lighting features
• Realistic square, gasket-mounted windows and flush glazing for authenticity

Expertly Crafted by Northcord Model Company

Renowned for their precision and quality, we can rest assured Northcord Model Company will once again deliver a standout replica. The model will feature their signature one-piece casting, showcasing clean body lines and detailed front-end moulding including the distinctive tree deflector.

Internally, the model will offer fully realised upper and lower saloon layouts, complete with finely moulded seating, handrails, and other interior fixtures. It will be a faithful tribute to the real bus, designed to delight collectors and enthusiasts alike. A New Chapter in Transport Nostalgia’s Journey This model is one of the first few commissioned pieces in our partnership with Northcord Model Company. Selecting 10483 for this release, allows us to highlight a bus that not only serves today’s passengers, but also honours Scotland’s transport legacy in a striking and meaningful way. Coming Soon!

The UKBUS0080 Strathtay Heritage Enviro400MMC will be available to order soon via our website. Please follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest release information and model launch announcements.

Northcord Model Company is pleased to announce the release of UKBUS6539, the eighth release of the 10.3 metre, 2-door casting of this distinctive, modern, double-decker in the United Kingdom.

The eighth livery to be carried on the brand-new Alexander Dennis Enviro400H MMC model, is Stagecoach London, produced in distinctive East London Ambassador livery. UKBUS6539 represents fleet number 12400 (YX16OHS) that has 10.3 metre, dual-door bodywork and was new to Stagecoach London in July 2016. 12400 has a Euro6 hybrid driveline. The model carries the roof fleet number SCG 12400.

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Barking Bus Garage, Stagecoach London repainted Enviro400H MMC 12400 into a traditional London Transport livery, similar to that worn on the Leyland Titans and other classic London buses. 12400 had debuted on Saturday 23rd March 2024, at an open day held at Barking Bus Garage which marked its century in that year.

12400 is based at Stagecoach London’s Barking Garage where it operates on busy route 145. 12400 carries the route 145 destination heading to Fair Cross with Barking Bus Garage in the lower line of the destination.

The stand-out features on the 12400 are: “East London Ambassador”, “Celebrating 100 years of Barking Bus Garage” on both sides and “Stagecoach” with ‘beach-ball’ logo on all sides.

The Alexander Dennis Enviro400H MMC UKBUS6539 is a one-piece casting whose clean lines accentuate the square-cornered, patented quick-release windows of the real bus and the livery application on which all logos and lettering are clearly legible. Another main feature on the UKBUS6539 model is its individual tree protector at the front. The front dome on the model is significant, with curved windscreens on both upper deck and lower deck.

Northcord Model Company is also creating new design standards within the interior of both saloons. These features, inside the compartments, will represent the real, outstanding layout of the Enviro400H MMC, such as the extensive portrayal of handrails on upper deck and lower deck, etc.

The brand new Enviro400H MMC bus models will be distributed by John Ayrey Die-Casts Limited (UK), Porte Publishing Company (Japan), 80M Bus Model Shop. respectively. The UKBUS6539 model is limited to 1008 pieces worldwide.

• Diary & Events - Upcoming MBF members only area meetings & net forum.
• Shows & Exhibitions - MBF Events & other public events
  
• Editorial
• Cover Story - DKY 481 an ex Bradford Daimler utility, in later life with Shirley's of Meriden. (see next article)
• DKY 481 - Simple by Paul Ellender - Paul lists the changes he made to the Daimler Utility LBC kit produce an accurate model of the Shirley's of Meriden ex Bradford Daimler Utility DKY 481.
• Multi-Storey Bus Park by Dave Jessop - Dave has been modeling buses for over 50 years and like many, storing his ever growing collection of models has caused storage space problems. Slight alterations to a Desk Tidy kits found on EBay has produced an effective solution.
• More Budgies by Mike Walker - Mike reflect back to fifty or sixty years ago, when modeling a fleet was more difficult and needed a lot of imagination & hack sawing of the limited range of rather basic Corgi, Dinky & Budgie models then available.
• Review: Citibus Wright Streetlite 9.6m by Paul Coley - A detailed review and build of the Citibus Models resin kit CM013.
• MBF Shop News - Latest kits in stock on the MBF members shop are the Plaxton Supreme 11m roof destination box grant door coaches, Dennis Dominator Alexander R type (SYPTE) and Alexander Enviro 300 with gasket style glazing. Plus news of restocked & low stock kits.
• Product News UK - Latest kit releases from Little Bus Company are the 315 Southdown Queen Mary. PR48S Southdown Leyland PS1 / Park Royal Coach. XA/XF LT Daimler Fleetline/Leyland Atl;antean XA/XF Class. Two new kits from Midland Bus Kits MBK015 Yutong TCe12 Electric Coach and MBK016 Volvo B10M-50.
• Welcome Aboard - Welcome to two new members.
• Plan of the Month - Journal 645 - An query about the Leyland Tiger wheelbase shown of the plans in the January Journal and whether these measurements changed on later vehicles, after Leyland was acquired by Volvo.
• Over to You - Some background relating to the Guy Arab plan featured in last month's Journal, and modifications Park Royal made to the vehicles after design following the end of Wartime concessions. A new member looking to make contact with other members in the Oxfordshire area.
• More Service Vehicles by Michael Whent - Another selection of LT service vehicle from Michael collection, including a Routemaster test-rig. STL tree lopping bus, Tramway Service vehicles, Garage Sweeper & London Country T class training bus.
• Memorable Models Number 89 (continued) by Ken Johnson - King Alfred Leyland PLSC3 Lion RU8678.
• N-Gauge Corner by Ken Jones - A open top conversion of the Oxford Diecast Southdown Queen Mary model.
• Budgie Postscript by Dave Jessop - An Eldorado BMMO C5s based on a standard Budgie model.
• Plan of the Month by Alan Johnson - Leyland PS1 / MCW Orion Highbridge rebody.
• Area News - Eleven pages of reports & nearly 75 colour model photographs covering recent MBF meetings in the North West, Yorkshire, North Midlands x2, West Midlands, West & Greater Manchester areas.
• MBF Shop - The MBF Streetscene,& Paragon range of white metal/resin parts & accessories, plus the MBF Streetscene 2K resin model kits that are exclusively available to MBF members.
• MBF Streetscene White metal Bus & Coach Kits - The former ABS white metal bus kits added to the MBF Streetscene range. These are available exclusively to members at low cost (from £10.00 to £35.00 - see the MBF page for a list of these model kits)

Transport Nostalgia is proud to present the UKBUS6535A ADL Enviro 400MMC, a highly detailed 1/76 scale model of Stagecoach East Midlands’ Pronto service. This release replicates vehicle 10977 (SN18 KTO), a 10.9m, single-door Enviro 400MMC that entered service in 2018. The model beautifully captures the Pronto route’s distinctive branded livery, complete with destination markings for Nottingham via Mansfield Bus Station.

True to the original, this model showcases a wealth of intricate details, including:

• “Pronto” branding prominently displayed on both sides and the rear
• “Pay with Contactless” messaging for added realism
• “Mansfield - Nottingham every 10 mins” service information on both sides
• “Free WiFi & USB Power” decals, reflecting the modern passenger experience

A Tribute to the Pronto Route

In June 2018, Stagecoach introduced 11 brand-new ADL Enviro 400MMCs to the Pronto service, replacing the older Enviro 300s. At the time, the route was jointly operated with Trent Barton, which used 2003-registered Scania L94UBs with Wright Solar bodywork. A year later, in 2019, Stagecoach expanded its fleet with four more Enviro 400MMCs, coinciding with the company’s full takeover of the Chesterfield–Mansfield–Nottingham route.

Exquisite Craftsmanship by Northcord Model Company

The Northcord Model Company’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in this one-piece casting, which highlights the square, gasket-mounted windows and precise livery application. Every logo and lettering is crisp and legible, ensuring a true-to-life representation. A standout feature is the front tree deflector, designed to protect the windscreen, front dome, and side windows - just like on the real bus.

Inside, Northcord Model Company sets new standards in model design, accurately replicating the interior saloon layouts with intricate handrails and seating details on both decks.

This eagerly awaited model will be available to order from us soon. Stay updated by following our Facebook page for the latest announcements! More exciting news to come over the following days! Why not come and see us on Sunday at Brooklands Spring Gathering? We will have many new releases in stock and some fantastic deals too.

• Diary & Events - Upcoming MBF members only area meetings & net forum.
• Shows & Exhibitions - MBF Events & other public events
  STOP PRESS The London Area MBF Show that was scheduled to take place on Saturday 8th March has been canceled due to unforeseen circumstances.
  Saturday 10th May 09:30 - 16:00: The South Shields Model Bus Show 2025. Salvation Army Hall, Wawn Street, South Shields NE33 4EB. Adults £3, Concessions £2
  Spring Bank Holiday Monday 26th May 10:00 - 16:00: The West Midlands Area Show. The Transport Museum, Chapel Lane, Wythall B47 6JA.
• Editorial
• Cover Story - Only two Beadle Canterbury coaches were built, Alan Morgan has produced a Scratchbuilt model. (see next article
• Beadle Canterbury Scratch-build by Alan Morgan - Alan explains how he built his model of this almost unique coach using mainly plasikard.
• Bradford BUT / Roe Trolleybus by Martin Hare - Martin details how he converted an Atlas Editions (OOC) Teeside Sunbeam Trolleybus in a Roe bodied Bradford Corporation version.
• Tilling Stevens Buses by Michael Whent - Michael gives some background information on eleven buses he has modeled that were operated by Thomas Tilling in London.
• Product News UK - Details of the latest new Sea Dog Atlantean models & bus garage re-issue in EFE Road's Spring release schedule.
• Meetings and Events - East Midlands Area MBF Area AGM information & confirmation that the London Area Show will not take place this year. Plan for the 2026 event are underway possibly at a different venue.
• Aussie Road Ragers Bedford SB by Brian Rowney - A look at the Australian Aussie Road Ragers Bedford SB HO scale bus models. More details: target="_blank">HERE
• Maguire by Syd Eade - Syd has finally managed to obtain one of the Maguire bodied Leyland PD2 models built by Brian Wright back in 1968.
• From the Archives - A Sunsundegui Sideral in Dick Lindsay's Forest Travel Fleet. 2020 MBF kit MBF2K-07.
• In Detail: BYD BD11 by David Cole - A gallery of photographs showing the exterior & interior of the UK version of BYD's in house electric bus.
• Plan of the Month by Dave Evans - Guy Arab (Rushton & Hornsby) / Park Royal (City of Lincoln).
• Area News - Ten pages of reports & nearly 60 colour photographs covering recent MBF meetings in the London, Dorset New Forest, West, Greater Manchester, South Wales & Herefordshire, Yorkshire & Ireland areas.
• MBF Shop - The MBF Streetscene,& Paragon range of white metal/resin parts & accessories, plus the MBF Streetscene 2K resin model kits that are exclusively available to MBF members.
• MBF Streetscene White metal Bus & Coach Kits - The former ABS white metal bus kits added to the MBF Streetscene range. These are available exclusively to members at low cost (from £10.00 to £35.00 - see the MBF page for a list of these model kits)

Please note the photographs below show pre-production samples and that certain colours or details may vary slightly on the finished models.

E40601 - Leyland Atlantean Open Top Western National NBC 926 926GTA
This model depicts registration 926GTA “Sir Francis Drake” in its post-1973 condition as fleet number 926, complete with lower route blind. The model is finished in NBC Poppy Red and White with Western National branding, operating on service 514 to Penzance. It also features period advertising on the original-style rear engine bustle, and separately fitted destination banner boards on the body sides.

E40602 - Leyland Atlantean Open Top Ribble 1927 927GTA
Our model represents registration 927GTA (formerly “Sir Martin Frobisher”) in its circa 1986 condition as Ribble Motor Services fleet number 1927, complete with original engine bustle and lowered route blind. The model is finished in the distinctive Ribble white, red and grey striped livery, and carries excursion service 02 blinds.

E40603 - Leyland Atlantean Open Top First Glasgow 39989 ABV669A
Here we have 927GTA once again, this time depicted in its 2004-2007 condition as First Glasgow fleet number 39989 (registration ABV669A), complete with original engine bustle.
The model is finished in the classic Glasgow Corporation orange, cream and green livery, but with Glasgow cityscape decals as working on the First City Tour sightseeing services.

E40801 - Leyland Atlantean Open Top Round London Sightseeing 933GTA
The model shoes registration 933GTA (formerly “Sir Walter Raleigh”) in its post-1982 condition after transfer to Holman Bros. Coaches of Wood Green for use on London Transport sightseeing services around the Capital. It is finished in London Transport red livery, complete with solid white roundels, London cityscape decals and “Round London Sightseeing Tour” branding. The lower position route blind and later style of replacement rear engine bustle complete the model.

E40803 - Leyland Atlantean Open Top Red Bus NBC 925 925GTA
Registration 925GTA (formerly “Admiral Blake”) is modelled in its post-1983 condition after transfer from Western National to North Devon Limited, a National Bus Company operator trading as Red Bus. The model is finished in NBC poppy red and white livery with Red Bus branding and full Western Counties Building Society advertising all round. The lower position route blind carries a service 301 to Westward Ho! Destination, while the later style of replacement rear engine bustle completes the model.